Natural hazards where you live

New Zealand is a place where we all live with some kind of natural hazard risk. It’s a good idea to understand what natural hazards could affect the area you live in and how you can reduce the risk of damage to your property.

Landslips and earthquakes can happen almost anywhere and low-lying areas are at risk of tsunami. The North Island has several volcanoes, and in some regions there’s hydrothermal activity.

The Earthquake Commission Act automatically gives some cover for your home, contents and land from these natural disasters, if you have private insurance (that includes fire insurance). We also cover damage to land from floods and storms.

Landslips

Landslips are one of the most common natural hazards to affect New Zealand homes and properties.

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A landslip may be triggered by heavy rain or earthquakes, with homes near hills or steep slopes most at risk. If you live near a hill or steep slope, watch out for cracks or movement that could be a warning sign.

Make sure any retaining walls are well maintained, and look around to see if neighbouring retaining walls or slopes could affect your property.

Every earthquake is different and unpredictable. The way the land moves during an earthquake can affect how a building performs. Even small earthquakes can damage a home, depending on the land the building sits on, as well as the building’s design and construction.

There are steps you can take around your home to help reduce the risk of damage: